Whilst we’re doing everything we can to stay sane (without going on holiday!), reading is still a classic pastime. Now’s the time to dust off the books you had ready for your beach holiday and transport yourself to another world. Walk in the shoes of your chosen protagonist and most importantly, escape from the monotony of daily life. We could all do with laying on the sandy shores of an exotic paradise. But since we can’t physically be there, indulge in a mental escape with old and new stories from our top beach reads.
Okay, setting up a deck chair in the garden with an ice-cold drink might help too!
Top books for a Mediterranean summer
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The Mediterranean is filled with gems like Italy famed for its colourful coastal towns and (obviously) great-tasting cuisine. Don’t forget about the stunning Greek Islands which boast turquoise waters, friendly locals and beaming sunshine. Or you might think back to unforgettable trips in Cyprus, the historical beauty of Malta or the unique splendour of the Balearics. Have yourself a mini Mediterranean summer with these top reads:
- Among the Lemon Trees by Nadia Marks
- The Island by Victoria Hislop
- The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri
- Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes
- Tangerine by Christine Mangan
Top books for Caribbean retreats
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The Caribbean has long been known as the ultimate paradise. Just think… secluded beaches, sweet cocktails and party vibes. Coconut palm trees towering above, crystal-clear waters where you can actually (no, really!) see your feet touch the bottom and netted hammocks which gently sway in the cool breeze. The list carries on… But if you’re thinking about transporting yourself there, we totally understand why. These top reads will take your mind to the Caribbean in a jiffy:
- Archipelago by Monique Roffey
- The Last Resort by Marissa Stapley
- In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez
- When We Left Cuba by Chanel Cleeton
- Love After Love by Ingrid Persaud
Top books for a US beach holiday
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Surfin’ USA… Ah, we can all dream right? As much as the US is known for its major cities, it’s got just as many beach hotspots to get excited about too. The effortless glamour and chic of Miami, the sultry Californian dream getaway to San Diego and even seaside day trips to New York’s Coney Island. The US sure knows how to mix the hustle and bustle of cities with relaxing beaches. So, whether you dream of sinking your toes into Florida’s powder-white sands or surfing along the Mission Beach waves in California, get ahead with these fascinating reads:
- The Summer Girls by Mary Alice Monroe
- Park Avenue Summer by Renee Rosen
- Whiskey Beach by Nora Roberts
- An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
- The Affairs of the Falcóns by Melissa Rivero
Top books for an Asia-inspired getaway
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From Thailand to India, Asia is filled with unique and enchanting places. Not only do they boast some of the most picturesque beaches you’ll ever see, but there’s tons of culture to rival its sandy shores. Golden temples, friendly locals and delicious food to boot, there’s plenty of reasons to discover these Asian wonders. And of course, there’s a scene to match your mood. Busy food markets and lively nightlife streets perk you up, whilst quiet stretches of rivers and tranquil spots put things into perspective. Experience all sides of the continent with these top reads:
- The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
- The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
- Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
- The Unlikely Adventures of the Shergill Sisters by Balli Kaur Jaswal
- A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Even more beach reads…
Perhaps, you don’t have somewhere in mind and that’s fine. There’s still plenty of top beach reads to enjoy. From romance to thrillers, get lost with these stories:
- The Guest List by Lisa Foley
- Beach Read by Emily Henry
- Friends and Strangers by J. Courtney Sullivan
- The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan
- The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth
